On Thursday, the European Parliament decisively condemned Thailand for human rights infractions, particularly concerning its lese-majeste law and the deportation of Uyghur refugees to China. The statement highlighted that Thai officials breached international law by forcibly sending at least 40 Uyghur individuals to face potential arbitrary detention and torture in China, despite offers from safer nations for their resettlement.
These refugees had languished in Thai immigration facilities for over a decade. Tragically, inhumane conditions reportedly led to the deaths of at least five Uyghurs, including minors, before their forced deportation. Furthermore, the Parliament criticized Thailand’s lese-majeste laws, asserting that they contravene the kingdom’s commitments under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).
The resolution stipulates several urgent actions: it condemns the deportation of Uyghur refugees and demands an immediate stop to further forced returns to perilous countries. It also urges Thailand to allow the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) unrestricted access to detained Uyghurs and to provide full transparency concerning their status.
In addition, the Parliament calls for respect of the fundamental rights of the returned Uyghurs by China, advocating for their access to UNHCR and the release of those currently detained. Thailand is urged to ratify the 1951 Refugee Convention and 1967 Protocol, and to implement a just asylum system.
Recognising Thailand as a key EU ally, the resolution encourages the nation to bolster democratic institutions and human rights standards, advocating for amendments to Section 112 and similar oppressive laws. It demands amnesty for all MPs and activists imprisoned under these laws.
Lastly, the Parliament proposes to use free trade negotiations to compel Thailand to reform its repressive legislation, halt the deportation of Uyghur refugees, release political prisoners, and ratify important International Labour Organisation conventions, while urging member states to suspend extradition treaties with the Chinese government.
The European Parliament condemned Thailand for human rights violations, particularly regarding the deportation of Uyghurs to China and its oppressive lese-majeste law. The resolution demands Thailand stop forced deportations, provide UNHCR access to asylum seekers, ratify the 1951 Refugee Convention, and reform repressive laws. It also highlights the deaths of Uyghurs in detention and stresses the importance of respecting human rights.
The European Parliament’s resolution strongly denounces Thailand’s treatment of Uyghur refugees and its oppressive lese-majeste laws. By demanding action from Thailand and China, the Parliament emphasises the importance of safeguarding human rights and asylum seekers. With calls for legislative reform and respect for international standards, this resolution aims to encourage Thailand to uphold democratic values and adhere to international legal commitments.
Original Source: www.bangkokpost.com
